Lake County News | California - Robert Alan McAlear, 1938-2009

Robert Alan McAlear, also known as “Mr. Mac,” was born June 28, 1938 in Oakland.

After a courageous battle against cancer he passed Aug. 16, 2009, at his home in Nice with his family around him.

Robert attended schools in Berkeley. He received his BA from UC Berkeley and went on to do graduate work at University of Washington. He received his MRE at Golden Gate Baptist Seminary in Mill Valley and earned his teaching credential at San Jose State.

Robert taught in the Lakeport Unified School District for 35 years and taught part time for Mendocino College for 30 years.

Together Robert and Debbie owned Main Street Jewelers in Lakeport for 16 years. Robert also worked as a supervisor in the Players Club at Robinson Rancheria Casino up until his poor health forced his resignation.

He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Upper Lake and editor of “The Seeker Corner,” the Church newsletter.

Robert is survived by his devoted wife, Debbie McAlear, with whom he recently celebrated their 47th wedding anniversary; son, John (Sonia) McAlear of Upper Lake; grandson, Stephen McAlear of Lakeport; sister, Vicki (John) Oberg of Oregon.

He also is survived by sisters-in-law, Naomi (Richard) McMurray of Kelseyville and Orpha (Larry) Gunn of Kelseyville; brother-in-law, Ike (Linda) Perez of Tennessee and numerous nieces and nephews.

Robert was a life member of the Lake County Genealogical Society and one of the founding members of the Silver Circle Volkswagon Club, and also treasurer and editor of the club newsletter.

Adios
written by chezking, September 06, 2009

One of the most enjoyable educational opportunities I have ever participated in was Bob's Conversational Spanish classes. He loved the language and teaching it to his students. I'm sorry his retirement was so short and my condolences to Debbie. If a teacher's greatest achievement is to instill a joy of learning, not just of a particular subject but of all that comes from being educated, Bob was very successful.

He is missed
written by solincobb, September 06, 2009

After taking a couple of Bob’s classes it wasn’t hard to consider him a friend. He was a truly wonderful person.

Miss you
written by LJ Thomas, September 10, 2009

Just wanted to let you know that Stephen and I miss you. We will be sure to look after Debbie and John for you and try to keep their spirits up. See you in the future Bob. Hugs.

Student from 1970.
written by benval50, September 29, 2009

He was always one of my favorite teachers in Middle School and High School. Spanish was the one class I looked forward too. I will never forget his wife bringing in food items from different Mexican holidays being celebrated. I am sure he will be missed greatly.